San Diego's adult residential facilities, known as board and care homes, are a critical lifeline for adults and seniors grappling with serious behavioral health conditions and the daunting prospect of homelessness. These state-licensed homes offer more than just a roof over residents' heads. They provide meals, housekeeping, transportation, medication management, and grooming support in a comfortable, homey setting, as detailed in the County of San Diego.
But the availability of these board and care beds is dwindling, with a significant drop of over 3,200 beds since 2019 – crisis levels for the eight San Diego providers catering to individuals on Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and a system seemingly standing on its last leg however, the emergence of a new state grant program might just be the saving grace they've been waiting for. Dubbed the Community Care Expansion – Preservation (CCE-P) Program, it has earmarked a hefty $16.6 million for San Diego County, funds operators can apply for to help alleviate the financial burden of capital improvements, renovations, and property upgrades that are much needed and about to get underway.
The county's infusion of support couldn't come at a more crucial time. Board and care facilities are more than mere structures. According to the County of San Diego, they're essential in assisting individuals with serious behavioral health issues in accessing consistent care and social support - essential for improved treatment outcomes. Beyond that, the program's financial aid represents a strong preventive measure against the depths of homelessness and the spinning wheels of revolving-door hospitalizations that too many residents face in place of stable housing options.
